Upstep Answers
Our team answers your questions about the causes and treatment of various podiatric conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, foot pain, and the use of custom orthotics.
Recent Answers
Are Pre-Made Orthotic Shoes as Good as Custom-Made Orthotics in Treating Overpronation?
If you have overpronation that's significant enough to require a pair of orthotics to try and correct the problem, then you're going to face the choice between shelling out a lot of money to get a pair of custom orthotics tailored to your feet, or picking the generic premade ones. Some people have had their problem fixed with generic over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics, but does this mean that they are as good as custom orthotics for treating overpronation? Don’t Misunderstand Symptom Reduction From OTC’s There's a common fallacy that dictates that just because one factor preceded an effect, it doesn't mean it caused the effect. Dancing before a rainstorm doesn't mean that you caused it. To a degree, the same is true in using OTC orthotics to treat certain foot conditions. True, you might be lucky enough to have your problem fixed, but the same won't necessarily be true for everyone and doesn't prove that premade orthotics are as good as custom ones. One Size of Insoles Won't Fit Everyone Custom orthotics are designed and tailored to your specific problem. Even though you might have the same diagnosis as someone else, you can't assume that the manifestation and severity of your symptoms will be identical to everyone who shares your diagnosis. Pre-made orthotics for overpronation are designed with a general degree of displayed symptoms, but what if yours have manifested to a greater or lesser degree? True, you might be a perfect representation that fits the orthotics ideally, but you also run the risk of over or under compensating, which can lead to more problems. The Final Verdict If you don't want to spend hundreds of dollars on a pair of custom orthotics, and your symptoms are minor, you might have some luck in trying a pair of pre-made orthotics. However, if you want to have the best chance of recovery, you definitely shouldn't skimp on quality. For more info, consult a podiatrist.
Asked 2 years ago
How Long Should It Take for Custom Orthotic Insoles to Give Relief?
Custom orthotics are designed to reshape your feet and force them to work the way they should, which can be uncomfortable at first. Depending on the condition that you intend to treat, it might take some before you are accustomed enough to wear them full time. Although everyone will be different, here are some guidelines that should help ease your mind: Accept the Break-In Period Since orthotics will make your feet operate in a totally new way, you should start off small and allow them time to get used to it. Many experts recommend wearing them around 2 to 3 times the first day for about 30 minutes each. Your feet will undoubtedly feel uncomfortable or tired after this, and so be sure to let them rest for a few hours in between. Try and increase the time spent wearing them by 15-30 minutes each time until you can wear them all day for every activity. In total, this process shouldn't take longer than a month. Custom Orthotics Should Not Make the Problem Worse It is important to note that podiatrists are people, and people make mistakes. Sometimes the orthotics aren't made correctly, or the condition was incorrectly diagnosed. If you go through the break-in period and still experience discomfort, pain, or notice that the condition has gotten worse, then consult your podiatrist immediately to have your orthotics readjusted. In Conclusion If you experience discomfort during the first few weeks of wearing new custom orthotics, then you're not alone. You have to accept that the treatment of many conditions with orthotics is a long-term process that will take time to adjust and fine-tune to your specific needs.
Asked 2 years ago
What Shoes Can You Put Orthotics In?
When it comes to orthotics, many people wonder what type of shoes you can put them in. While over-the-counter orthotics can work with any shoe type, custom orthotics present a better alternative. Apart from using them with any type of shoe, the same custom orthotic insole is also designed to fit different styles of shoes. Consequently, they are more effective in producing desired outcomes, especially with foot pathology. Custom orthotics also help you save money that would have been spent purchasing different orthotics for different shoes. It also ensures that you can wear your orthotics as often as possible, regardless of the style of shoe you need to wear. This should be one of the considerations you make when choosing to buy over-the-counter insoles or custom orthotics. Though orthotics can fit multiple shoe types, it does not mean you can use the same orthotics for all your shoes. Instead, they are built for use with similar shoe types. So while one is used in different activity footwear, such as running shoes and hiking shoes, another is useful for dress shoes like high heels and sandals. One Size Doesn't Fit All One orthotic cannot fit every type of shoe, and when it doesn't fit, the orthotics are likely to cause discomfort. This is often the case with over-the-counter insoles, which are pre-made and pre-designed, regardless of your shoe size. But it can also happen with a poorly fitted custom orthotic. A poorly fitting insole will slide around or stretch your shoe, causing discomfort and depriving you of the full benefits of custom orthotics. In contrast, properly fitting insoles are comfortable, convenient to wear, and effective for your foot needs. How to Solve the Problem Orthotics that do not fit the foot well will cause several biomechanical problems, including back, hip, and knee pain. Choosing a properly-fitting orthotic from the different types of custom orthotics available is important to derive maximum benefits from its use. For example, based on your foot complaints and requirements, you should either opt for rigid or soft orthotics. A quick custom orthotics review will show you that Upstep custom orthotics are one of the best around. Apart from being designed by professional podiatrists, Upstep orthotics are made from quality and durable materials. They are also more affordable than several other custom orthotics on the market. Ideally, it is best to have at least two pairs of orthotics for maximum benefit. While one can fit into work shoes, the other can work with dress shoes. This ensures that orthotics fit your feet and shoes optimally. Interestingly, you are eligible for reimbursement under the FSA and HSA plans if you purchase an Upstep orthotic. The firm also provides you with an invoice to that effect. How Often Should You Change Orthotics? With time, your orthotics can get worn out or damaged. You may also outgrow it with aging or develop an injury that warrants a different kind of orthotic. In such events, you should consider replacing your orthotics. While over-the-counter orthotics last an average of six to twelve months, custom orthotics are more durable. Custom orthotics last longer, averaging two to three years of use. Regardless of the type of insole, you should watch for signs of damage, as any worn-out orthotics will cause further damage to your feet.
Asked 2 years ago
Would Orthotics Help With Arthritis in My Toes?
Orthotics can help reduce foot pain caused by arthritis. They can make it easier to live with arthritis, but orthotics won't cure the condition. However, they can provide your arthritic toes with the shock absorption and cushioning they need to reduce pain. The best insoles for arthritic feet are custom orthotics made to your personal requirements. Custom Orthotics for Arthritic Toes In addition to relieving pain from arthritic toes, custom orthotics may make long-term biomechanical changes that could slow or even prevent the progression of arthritis. These inserts can redistribute weight, thus reducing pressure on your arthritic toes. Custom orthotics may restore natural alignment, and relieve stress on the knees, back, and ankles. With proper arch support, custom inserts can correct gait issues, and this can offer relief to arthritic toes that have been carrying misplaced weight. Will Orthotics Help Arthritic Toes? Standardized, over-the-counter insoles probably won't help arthritic toes, as they are not designed for your particular feet and their unique issues. But custom orthotics could improve many foot issues that arise from having arthritic toes. You need to be patient as it can take time to adjust, but wearing custom orthotics will most likely reduce pain and help you live more comfortably with arthritic toes.
Asked 2 years ago